Med Creamy Spinach & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
The vivid, rich tastes of the Mediterranean with this Salmon Stuffed with Creamy Spinach and Shrimp! This meal has flaky, delicate salmon with a rich filling of sun-dried tomatoes, juicy prawns, and creamy cheese, all flavored with herbs from the Mediterranean. This sophisticated but simple dish may be baked, air-fried, or pan-seared to perfection, making it ideal for a big event or a weekday supper. For a healthy, restaurant-caliber dinner at home, serve it with a light quinoa salad or a side of roasted veggies.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
2 large salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Filling:
½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
⅓ cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Instructions:
Prep the Salmon:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or set an air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest part of each salmon fillet (be careful not to cut all the way through).
Season the salmon with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix chopped shrimp, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, feta cheese, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Stuff the Salmon:
Spoon the filling evenly into the salmon pockets.
Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
Cook the Salmon:
Oven Method: Place stuffed salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily.
Air Fryer Method: Place in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Stovetop Method: Sear the salmon in a pan with olive oil over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, then cover and cook for another 3-4 minutes until done.
Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a Mediterranean salad.
Tips & Variations:
Make it dairy-free: Use cashew cream instead of cream cheese and feta.
Use different seafood: Swap shrimp for crab or chopped scallops.
Want a richer flavor? Add a drizzle of garlic butter on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
Creamy Spinach & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon provides a well-balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Here’s a general estimate per serving:
Calories: ~450-500 kcal
Protein: ~40g (rich in omega-3s and lean protein)
Fat: ~30g (mostly from heart-healthy salmon and cream cheese)
Carbohydrates: ~5-8g (minimal, mostly from spinach and cheese)
Fiber: ~1-2g (from spinach and optional sun-dried tomatoes)
Sodium: ~500-700mg (varies based on seasoning and cheese choice)
Calcium: ~15-20% DV (from cream cheese and spinach)
Iron: ~10-15% DV (thanks to the spinach and shrimp)
These values may vary based on portion size, ingredient choices, and cooking method. To keep it lighter, opt for reduced-fat cheese and bake instead of pan-frying.
In conclusion:
With its rich tastes and healthful ingredients, this Mediterranean-Style Creamy Spinach & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the ideal balance of style and comfort. This dish is guaranteed to dazzle, whether you’re preparing it for a big event or just treating yourself to a fine dining experience at home. For a balanced, filling supper, serve it with your preferred sides, such as quinoa, roasted veggies, or a crisp Mediterranean salad. Savor every morsel of this tasty and nourishing salmon dish.